Icha, an Orphan from Pandeglang, Continues to Study to Achieve Her Dream of Becoming an Ustazah

Not every child grows up with an easy life. In a village in Pandeglang Regency, Banten, a young elementary school student named Icha faces her days with strength and determination. She is 12 years old and in the 5th grade. Two years ago, she lost her father, who had been the main support of the family. Since then, Icha’s life and her family’s situation have changed greatly.

Icha is the fifth of seven siblings. Her mother now carries all responsibilities alone by doing various small jobs to meet their daily needs. Even with her hard work, the income is often not enough. Icha’s older siblings who are already married also face financial challenges, so they are unable to help much.

In these difficult conditions, Icha continues to keep her spirit for learning. She knows that by staying in school, she has a chance to build a better future. Although education costs often become a burden, she refuses to give up. Every morning, she walks to school with hope, carrying her worn but meaningful books.

Icha has a simple yet noble dream. She wants to become an ustazah so she can teach religious knowledge and share kindness with others. With a soft but confident voice, she said, “I want to be an ustazah so I can teach other children about goodness.” Her words reflect her strong determination despite many limitations.

Human Initiative sees the spirit of children like Icha as something that deserves support. Through education programs and social assistance, Human Initiative works to help orphans like Icha continue their studies and achieve their dreams.

Let’s collaborate through human-initiative.jp to support other children as they reach for a brighter future.

*Name has been changed to protect the privacy of the program beneficiary.